Set at the confluence of two rivers that almost surround the town, and beneath a temple-topped hill, Luang Prabang was the ancient royal capital of the Lan Xang Kingdom until 1545. After being recognized as UNESCO’s site since 1995, Luang Prabang has been arise as an famous destination with its amalgamation of crumbling French architecture, glistening temples and extensive natural beauty. The town’s entire historical section is dedicated to tourism, with everything from former royal palaces to over 33 Wats (temples), on the tourist trail. This former Royal capital still remains the main centre for Buddhist learning in Laos and is the perfect location for spiritual contemplation.

Location
Luang Prabang located in north central Laos, at the confluence of the Nam Khan river and Mekong River about 425 km north of Vientiane

Quick facts
Population: 408.800
Area: 16.875 km²
Dial code: +856 – 71

History
Luang Prabang rose to prominence as the capital of the first Lao kingdom (Lan Xang – land of the million elephants) from 1353 onwards. The fragmentation of the Lao kingdom at the end of the 16th century saw Luang Prabang become a militarily weak independent city state paying tribute to the surrounding kingdoms. Ultimately the 1887 sacking of the city by the Chinese Haw led the Luang Prabang monarchy to accept the protection of the French, whose influence led to the construction of the many fine colonial villas that sit harmoniously alongside the traditional Lao architecture.

The city fell into decline in the latter half of the 20th century following the reluctant withdrawal of the French, and the 1975 revolution which brought an end to the Luang Prabang monarchy. The relative poverty of newly-independent Laos perhaps helped save Luang Prabang from the ravages of 20th century city planning.

Climate
Luang Prabang features a tropical wet and dry climate under the Köppen climate classification. While the city is generally very warm throughout the year, it is noticeably cooler during December and January. Luang Prabang also experiences wet and dry seasons, with the wet season from March until September, and the dry season during the remaining five months.

Best time to go
Best time to visit Luang Prabang is between October and April.

BanksIndochina Bank operates foreign exchange counters on the main road of King Sisathat Road. http://www.indochinabank.com/Join Development Bank (JDB), locates next to Indochina Bank on King Sisathat Road. http://www.jdbbank.com/BCEL operates foreign exchange counters on the main road near Wat Visoun. http://www.bcel.com.la/la